Planning Initiatives

Canal District

The Canal District is the city’s premier premier planning and development initiative. Anchored by the SPLOST-funded new arena, it is located on the city’s west side near the intersection of Gwinnet Street and Stiles Avenue. The district will be one of the largest projects the city has ever undertaken and presents the opportunity to create vibrant new center of activity adjacent to Savannah’s core.

The City conducted a listening workshop on August 22, 2019 to present preliminary plans and hear feedback from the community. A visioning workshop followed on September 14th, which included draft plan principles and priorities. A plan workshop on October 10th, "District Connections: Water and People" looked specifically at drainage issues. A November 7th, 2019 presentation provided a more comprehensive set of master plan recommendations.

During Council Workshop held on April 23, 2020, the Canal District Master Plan and accompanying Action Playbook was presented to Mayor and Aldermen. To watch the full presentation, please click HERE. Over the next month, the City will be presenting the information to the Metropolitan Planning Commission as well as host additional outreach sessions for the community to learn about this important initiative. A full schedule will be posted once it is finalized. To receive updated, please email planning@savannahga.gov or call 912-429-3364.

Downtown Streetscape Improvement Initiative

In 2014, the City launched the Downtown Streetscape Improvement Initiative to build on previous planning efforts to revitalize downtown Savannah and create an environment that contributes to its livability and economic vitality.

ULI Study

In October 2018 the Urban Land Institute (ULI), a nonprofit research and education group, convened a technical assistance panel to assess the highest and best uses for the Civic Center site. The site represents a "unique and significant redevelopment opportunity with the National Historic Landmark District." The group conducted numerous site visits and stakeholder interviews. It published its report, "Savannah Civic Center Redevelopment" in late 2018.